Choose the type of mask that is most effective at warding off the virus

Read all articles about coronavirus (COVID-19) here.

The use of masks has become mandatory after WHO declared the COVID-19 pandemic a global emergency.

The use of masks is one of the three most important things in preventing the transmission of COVID-19 which must be done when doing activities outside the home. The other two things are keep a distance of at least one meter and wash your hands diligently.

The main function of a mask is to block fluids (droplets) or air particles from leaving the wearer when he talks, coughs, or sneezes. Masks also help block other people's droplets from sticking to the face and finding their way into the body.

Now many types of masks are available with their respective functions and uses. Before making your choice, identify the following types and functions of masks so you don't make the wrong choice.

The following are some types of masks along with their functions and benefits.

Cloth masks are recommended for the prevention of COVID-19 transmission

Due to the reasons for the limited availability of surgical masks, both WHO and the government are advising ordinary people to at least wear cloth masks.

WHO requires the use of a cloth mask made of three layers. The first layer is recommended to use a material that can absorb droplets. The second layer can be a tissue insert or it can be likened to the material in the first layer. The third layer, or the outermost layer, is hydropobic, which is a type of material that can prevent the entry of droplets.

This 3-ply cloth mask is effective at holding back about 70 percent of the droplet particles.

In Indonesia, many single-layer cloth masks are made from scuba. This mask is not recommended for use because it is only able to withstand 0-5 percent of incoming particles, aka not effective at all.

Keep in mind, cloth masks should be changed immediately when dirty, wet, or have been worn for more than 4 hours.

Surgical masks

Surgical masks or can be referred to as medical masks which are usually green or blue in color. This type of mask is able to withstand droplets of about 80-90 percent. This mask can only be used once within 4 hours of use.

This mask is especially mandatory for use by sick patients and health workers who do not handle COVID-19 patients directly. Officers who handle COVID-19 patients directly are required to wear N-95 masks and level 3 PPE.

N95 respirator mask

Respirators or also known as N95 respirator masks, are designed to protect the wearer from small particles in the air that may contain viruses.

The designation N95 means that the mask is able to filter 95% of particles as small as 0.3 microns from the air.

Viruses from the coronavirus family are fairly large (at least by virus standards), with an average size of just over 0.1 micron. So theoretically, some virus particles can still penetrate the N95 respirator mask. In addition, N95 respirator masks are not designed for children or people with facial hair.

Make sure you use this mask properly. As the New York State Department of Health states, masks should cover your nose and mouth to keep you from inhaling mold and dust, as well as other particles.

COVID-19 Outbreak updates Country: IndonesiaData

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How do you properly put on a face mask?

The requirement to wear a mask properly is to cover the face from the bridge of the nose to below the chin. Tighten the bridge of the nose and the edge of the mask so that droplets do not come out of the area.

Do not get your nose pressed because the mask is too tight, wear it comfortably so you are not tempted to touch the outside of the mask. Touching the outside of the mask you are wearing risks transferring the virus or dirt to your hands and reducing its effectiveness.

Are masks effective for disease prevention?

A study published in International Journal of Infection said that masks that are used properly can effectively prevent the spread of the virus.

Another published study Annals of Internal Medicine reported something similar. The study examined 400 people with flu. As a result, family members who frequently wash their hands and use masks reduce their risk of catching flu by up to 70 percent.

If used properly, surgical masks and cloth masks can help block large particle drops, splashes, sprays that may contain bacteria or viruses. All three also help reduce your exposure to saliva and your breath to others.

Even so, the three types of masks are not capable of filtering out the tiny particles in the air (airborne) that can be transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or certain medical procedures. So maintaining distance, avoiding crowds, especially in closed spaces, and diligently washing hands are still needed to prevent transmission of COVID-19.